What is the difference between an open and a closed AA meeting?

 

 

As the term suggests, open meetings are open to alcoholics and their families and to anyone interested in solving a personal drinking problem or helping someone else to solve such a problem.

 

Closed meetings are limited to alcoholics and those who think or know they have a problem with drinking. They provide an opportunity for members to relate their experiences with one another on problems related to drinking patterns and attempts to achieve stable sobriety. They also permit detailed discussion of various elements in the recovery program.